A Journey Across Two Nations: The 2024 Trans-Oceania Cycling Tour

Kody Block was the Content Creator for the 2024 Trans-Oceania Cycling Tour .

As the final cyclist arrived at our hotel in Queenstown, I grabbed my camera to capture the last day of our adventure. Looking around, the moment was filled with smiles, champagne toasts, and heartfelt embraces, and it was hard not to marvel at the challenges we’ve overcome throughout the last 2.5 months. This final stop marked the end of a 5,550-kilometer journey across Australia and New Zealand. From the iconic Great Ocean Road to Tasmania’s rugged beauty and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand, I had the opportunity to ask riders to share their personal experiences, capturing the highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments of this adventure. Reflecting on the trip, rider Grant Duncan shared that “Seeing koalas in the wild as well as the great coastal roads across Australia and New Zealand were highlights. The flora and fauna of both countries were a sight to behold.”

Credit: Grant Duncan

Grant’s reflection resonates deeply. The early days of our trip were marked by incredible wildlife encounters across Australia. Kangaroos hopped alongside riders, and thanks to our resident koala spotter Fiona, we estimate seeing over 30 koalas between Adelaide and North Geelong! The Great Ocean Road in Australia and the Great Coast Road in New Zealand showcased stunning yet distinct characteristics. The Great Ocean Road, popular among tourists, featured fierce waves crashing against towering cliffs. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Great Coast Road offered lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and an equally dramatic coastline—both unforgettable in their beauty.

Every journey comes with its challenges, and this one was no exception. New Zealand is a country of undeniable beauty, yet its narrow, winding roads highlight the need for safer cycling paths to support the growing interest in bike tourism. When asked about her experience cycling across New Zealand, Rider Kristen noted “One big challenge is the lack of cycling infrastructure here. If they want to develop bike tourism, they could really use some investment in safe cycleways.” Challenge, however, can often breed opportunity, and at the conclusion of the tour, this was also a time for reflection on the latter.

Rider Helen offered this advice to anyone considering a TDA cycling adventure – “Don’t be afraid to seize an exciting opportunity, meet like-minded individuals, and see some amazing places. Let the adventure write itself.” Her words perfectly capture the spirit of this group and TDA adventures—each trip is unique, blending determination and a deep appreciation for the challenges ahead.

A Personal Note:

For me, this journey has reminded me of my passion for storytelling through cycling. Each trip brings new experiences, but this was my first opportunity to capture volcanic landscapes, explore rainforests, and come face to face with a kangaroo! As I watched cyclists toast to their achievement and embrace one another, a quote from The Secret Life of Walter Mitty came to mind: “Beautiful things don’t ask for attention.” This sentiment rings true not just for the landscapes we crossed, but for the quiet, powerful connections formed on Trans-Oceania 2024. Cheers to the experience we’ve had, the relationships we’ve built, and to cycling the road less traveled.

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